Sifu, the adrenaline-pumping martial arts game, is available at a hefty 75% discount on Steam until August 7, bringing its price down to just $10. This action-packed beat-’em-up immerses players in a gripping quest for revenge, where you step into the shoes of a young kung fu student seeking justice for his murdered family.
The game stands out with its strategic close-combat system, deeply influenced by traditional kung fu. Success isn’t about frantic button pressing; it requires precise timing for blocks, dodges, and counters. Expect gritty, strategic fights where you can wield classic melee weapons like knives and pipes, and cleverly use your surroundings—from stools to railings—to outsmart opponents. A unique aging mechanic adds depth to the gameplay: with every death, the protagonist ages, gaining power and experience but losing health, challenging players to complete levels with minimal deaths.
In reviews, Sifu shines for its stunning presentation. It captures the essence of a 70s kung fu film with cinematic camera work, a sleek art style, and a perfectly fitting soundtrack. The challenging combat and memorable boss encounters make it consistently engaging. However, the steep learning curve presents a significant challenge. The lack of checkpoints and healing items means frequent restarts, especially initially, which might frustrate newcomers. Additionally, the fast-paced action can be hindered by a camera that struggles with the tight level design.
Despite its challenges, Sifu has earned positive reviews. With a Metascore of 81 and a user score of 7.1 on Metacritic, it reflects both critical acclaim and some player frustrations. Yet, the Steam community paints a different picture, with 92% of around 16,000 user reviews being positive, emphasizing its intense, skill-based gameplay.
Developed by the French indie studio Sloclap in partnership with Kepler Interactive, Sifu launched in March 2023. Originally priced at $40, the current discount marks its lowest price. It’s also “Playable” on the Steam Deck, making it a great choice for those who want to take their kung fu action on the go.
